In-situ THz Scanner for Source Rock Potential Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring source rock potential in hydrocarbon reservoirs are inefficient and require laboratory analysis of extracted samples, which is time-consuming and costly, and do not allow for real-time assessment of large areas or deep penetration into subterranean regions.
Innovation Solution
The use of in-situ Terahertz (THz) scanners attached to wellbores to generate and analyze THz scanning images, identifying molecular components and determining source rock potential in real-time, with the ability to penetrate several millimeters into the rock and provide 2.5D imaging of hydrocarbon-bearing rocks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laboratory analysis of extracted samples is used to measure source rock potential, then measurement precision can be achieved, but time consumption and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical laboratory extraction and analysis systems with an optical Terahertz imaging system. The THz scanner uses electromagnetic radiation to penetrate and image source rock in situ, eliminating the need for physical sample extraction, transportation, and laboratory processing while maintaining measurement capability through optical detection of rock properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces Terahertz radiation as an intermediary medium to transfer information from the source rock to the detector. The THz waves penetrate the rock formation and carry information about source rock potential, organic matter content, and rock properties to the imaging system, enabling remote measurement without direct contact or sample extraction.
2Measurement precision
If laboratory analysis of extracted samples is used to measure source rock potential, then detailed component identification is possible, but operational expenses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive laboratory analytical instruments (such as gas chromatographs and mass spectrometers) with a Terahertz imaging system. The THz scanner provides detailed component identification through spectral analysis of organic matter and rock minerals using electromagnetic radiation, eliminating the need for costly laboratory equipment and associated operational expenses.
Solution Approach 2:
The Terahertz imaging system performs self-service measurement by directly imaging and analyzing source rock properties in situ. The system identifies organic matter content, rock type, and source rock potential without requiring external laboratory services, sample preparation, or specialized analytical equipment, thereby reducing operational dependencies and expenses.
3Measurement precision
If traditional sampling methods are used, then source rock analysis can be performed, but sample damage occurs due to depressurization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses Terahertz radiation as a non-contact intermediary to measure source rock properties without physical contact. The THz waves penetrate the rock formation and provide information about organic matter and rock properties without requiring sample extraction, thereby maintaining sample integrity and avoiding damage from depressurization or handling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical sampling operations (drilling, coring, extraction) with optical Terahertz imaging. This substitution eliminates the physical disturbances that cause sample damage during extraction and transport, allowing source rock analysis to be performed on intact formations in situ.
4Area of stationary object
If current measurement methods are used, then source rock potential can be assessed, but large-area imaging and deep penetration are not achievable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from point-based or small-area laboratory analysis to area-based in situ imaging using Terahertz radiation. The THz scanner provides two-dimensional imaging capability that covers large areas of the wellbore formation, enabling assessment of source rock potential across extended regions rather than isolated sample points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses Terahertz radiation as an intermediary that penetrates deep into the subterranean formation while carrying information about source rock properties. The THz waves achieve deep penetration into the rock formation, enabling measurement of source rock potential at depth without requiring physical access or sample extraction from deep formations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables real-time assessment of source rock potential, reducing turn-around time and operational expenses, allowing for efficient planning of drilling and extraction operations while preventing sample damage due to depressurization and enabling large-area imaging without the need for laboratory analysis.
Implementation Method 1
irradiating, by an in-situ terahertz (THz) scanner, Terahertz (THz) waves to a source rock sample... generating a THz scanning image based on the THz waves that are reflected from the source rock sample or penetrated through the source rock sample
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes methods and systems for determining source rock potential in a subterranean region of a hydrocarbon reservoir. One method includes: receiving, a terahertz (THz) scanning image from an in-situ THz scanner that is attached to a wellbore at a first subterranean location, wherein the wellbore extends into the subterranean region of the hydrocarbon reservoir; identifying, components of a source rock in the first subterranean location based on the THz scanning image; and determining, the source rock potential at the first subterranean location based on the identified components of the source rock.